Ojojo is a delicious Nigerian snack made from grated water yam, seasoned with spices, and deep-fried to golden perfection. This recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings and festive occasions where these crispy fritters were always a hit. The combination of water yam, pepper, onions, and crayfish creates a unique flavor that is both savory and satisfying.

Ojojo (Water Yam Fritters) recipe

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Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
35min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1-2 fritters)
  • water yam
    water yam
    2lb
  • habanero pepper
    habanero pepper
    8sprigs
  • medium onion
    medium onion
    1
  • salt
    salt
    1/2tsp
  • cube seasoning cubes
    cube seasoning cubes
    2
  • ground crayfish
    ground crayfish
    3tsp
  • oil for frying
    oil for frying
  • Half  of ehuru ( optional)
    Half of ehuru ( optional)
    tsp

How to make Ojojo (Water Yam Fritters)

  1. Step 1

    Peel and wash the water yam thoroughly.

    Step 1.1: Peel and wash the water yam thoroughly
  2. Step 2

    Grate the water yam and transfer it into a bowl.

    Step 1.1: Grate the water yam and transfer it into a bowl
  3. Step 3

    Coarsely grind or finely chop the habanero peppers and onion.

    Step 1.1: Coarsely grind or finely chop the habanero peppers and onion
    Step 1.2: Coarsely grind or finely chop the habanero peppers and onion
    Step 1.3: Coarsely grind or finely chop the habanero peppers and onion
  4. Step 4

    Add the chopped peppers, onion, salt, seasoning cubes, and ground crayfish to the grated water yam in the bowl.

    Step 1.1: Add the chopped peppers, onion, salt, seasoning cubes, and ground crayfish to the grated water yam in the bowl
    Step 1.2: Add the chopped peppers, onion, salt, seasoning cubes, and ground crayfish to the grated water yam in the bowl
    Step 1.3: Add the chopped peppers, onion, salt, seasoning cubes, and ground crayfish to the grated water yam in the bowl
    Step 1.4: Add the chopped peppers, onion, salt, seasoning cubes, and ground crayfish to the grated water yam in the bowl
  5. Step 5

    Mix everything together until well combined.

    Step 1.1: Mix everything together until well combined
  6. Step 6

    Heat oil in a pan for frying and add a few chunks of onion to the hot oil for flavor.

    Step 1.1: Heat oil in a pan for frying and add a few chunks of onion to the hot oil for flavor
  7. Step 7

    Scoop small quantities of the water yam mixture into the hot oil using your hands or a deep spoon.

    Step 1.1: Scoop small quantities of the water yam mixture into the hot oil using your hands or a deep spoon
  8. Step 8

    Fry on medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden brown on both sides.

    Step 1.1: Fry on medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden brown on both sides
    Step 1.2: Fry on medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden brown on both sides
  9. Step 9

    Remove the fritters and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

  10. Step 10

    Serve and enjoy!

    Step 1.1: Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

253.8kcal (12.69%)

Protein

4.7g (9.3%)

Carbs

57.1g (20.76%)

Sugars

1.6g (3.2%)

Healthy Fat

0.5g

Unhealthy Fat

0.2g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the fritters from absorbing too much oil.

  2. Adding chunks of onion to the oil enhances the flavor of the fritters.

  3. Use a deep spoon or your hands to scoop the mixture for uniform fritter sizes.

  4. Serve Ojojo with a dipping sauce or enjoy it plain as a snack.

  5. You can alternatively add half tsp of ground ehuru ( African nutmeg)

FAQS

  1. Can I use a different type of yam for this recipe?

    No, this recipe specifically calls for water yam as it has the right texture and consistency for making Ojojo.

  2. How do I know when the fritters are done?

    The fritters are done when they turn golden brown on both sides and feel firm to the touch.

  3. Can I make Ojojo ahead of time?

    Yes, you can make Ojojo ahead of time and reheat them in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

  4. What can I serve Ojojo with?

    Ojojo can be served with a spicy dipping sauce or enjoyed as a standalone snack.

  5. Can I freeze the water yam mixture?

    It is not recommended to freeze the mixture as it may alter the texture and consistency of the fritters.

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